The 19th annual Colorado Western Slope College Fair, a free in-person interactive event for all Western Slope high school students, families and counselors, will be held on Sunday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

The college fair is a free event offering the opportunity for high school students and families from all 82 high schools across the Western Slope to explore college options.

According to Kelly Doherty, director of college outreach, “The Colorado Department of Education recently reported that: ‘(t)o keep our economy strong, nearly every student will need further education or training. Today, about 75% of all jobs and 97% of top jobs — those with high growth rates and pay a living wage — require a certificate or degree beyond high school.’ At the Colorado Western Slope College Fair on Sunday, Oct. 1, students can make their college dreams a reality.” 

Registration for students, parents and counselors is open and students and families from throughout the region are encouraged to attend.

Over 230 colleges and universities from across the United States, North America and Europe will be in attendance to meet with students. Colleges present include four-year, two-year, as well as trade and vocational colleges. 

Over 30 interactive workshop sessions in English and Spanish will be offered on helpful topics, including financial aid and scholarships, student athletic recruiting, the college application essay, alternatives to four-year colleges, and more. 

The Colorado Western Slope College Fair takes place on the entire Aspen School District campus including Aspen Elementary, Aspen Middle, and Aspen High Schools for workshops. There is no parking on campus. Parking is at Buttermilk and music tent parking lots with shuttles to campus.

To learn more and register, please visit cwscollegeoutreach.org.